The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Tagbilaran has started to study the possible regulation of cellphone use in Tagbilaran schools.
A proposed ordinance has been filed seeking to regular cellphone use in schools as part of the effort of the security of students after the horrible shooting that happened in Tacloban City.
Councilor Gemma Inting filed a proposed ordinance calling to turn off the cellphones of students during school hours.
The only exception is when the teacher allows the use of the gadget for educational purposes and if there are emergencies.
Inting presented the proposal during the regular session of the SP on June 30, 2026.
Inting said this is part of the effort to strengthen security and discipline in schools.
The proposed ordinance limits the personal use of cellphones during class hours.
The proposed ordinance was referred to the Committee on Education chaired by Coun. Jose Floro Ringca for further legislative action.
Meanwhile, Kabataan for Change stalwarts express their opinion on the possible ban on the use of mobile phones among minors.
Ivy Betalmos and Carl Hinlo reacted to the issue as they pointed out that grooming of the suspects in the Tacloban shootout may have been carried out using mobile phones.
Betalmos insisted that mobile phones are important if used for school work.
Mobile phone use can help young people to be aware of what is happening in the world via news and information.
This can also expose the youth to fake news and they may absorb it if they are not able to properly fact check.
Uncontrolled use may lead to distractions, Hinlo said.
Betalmos said some youth may self diagnose mental health issues just because they read it on the mobile phones.
Total ban will make communication more difficult, Hinlo said.
They bat for a proper policy in the use of mobile phones especially in schools.
Betalmos said authorities need to balance the issue whether to push a total ban or not.